Market Gallery Show Highlights Hogtown’s Jazz History

TORONTO: The Market Gallery has opened a new exhibit thatshowcases the evolution of Toronto’s jazz scene “Notes in the Night: The History of Toronto Jazz Clubs Since 1946,” – to run from March 3 to June 23.

“Our notable jazz scene has cultivated and nurtured some of the most talented musicians in Toronto, Canada and worldwide,” said Mayor John Tory. “This exhibit is an exciting historical homage to Toronto’s jazz clubs. I encourage everyone to visit this exhibit to learn about the venues and people who made jazz an essential part of our city.”

Guest curated by jazz historian Ralph Coram, the exhibit profiles Toronto’s jazz venues using photographs, menus, advertising, record sleeves, posters, corres¬pondence and interviews. It also features materials from the collections of music-scene personalities such as Dave Caplan, Jim Galloway, Archie Alleyne and the Coda Magazine papers. Recordings of interviews with jazz greats Archie Alleyne, Molly Johnson and Don Vickery focus on the experiences of performers and the social and political dynamics of Toronto’s scene.

“Toronto jazz artists have played a pivotal role in making our city the largest centre for music in Canada and one of the most vibrant music cities in the world,” said Councillor Michael Thompson (Ward 37 Scarborough Centre), Chair of the City’s Economic Development Committee. “This exhibit is an excellent opportunity to gain insight into the inspirations and challenges that shaped their music.”

Toronto’s jazz clubs began to flourish soon after the Province of Ontario liberalized liquor licence regulations in 1946 with a new dining lounge licence, which enabled live music venues to sell liquor. Toronto developed a large fan base for jazz, and the city became a regular stop for performers on the tour circuit through New York, Kansas City, Chicago, Detroit and Montreal.

The Market Gallery, one of 10 Toronto History Museums operated by the City, presents exhibitions dedicated to Toronto’s art, culture and history and offers educational programs for school groups and adults. Located on the second floor of the South St. Lawrence Market at 95 Front St. E., the gallery is open Tuesday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is closed Sunday, Monday and holidays.

The Market Gallery now charges admission fees. The new admission fees, including HST, are: adults (19-64), $8; seniors (65+) and youth (13-18), $7; children (5-12), $5; and children 4 and under are free. – Pic: Market Gallery –